How to Set Up a Typewriter

Once the age of computers began, typewriters quickly became an afterthought; stores began stocking computers and weeding out the typewriters. Typewriters are often hard to locate, as are directions on how to set one up. Setting up a typewriter is the process of installing the ink, adding paper and preparing the machine for use. All typewriters are different, but many operate and are set up in the same fashion.

Insert the Cassette Ribbon

Center the ribbon carrier by tapping the spacebar and backspace keys. The spacebar moves the ribbon carrier to the right and backspace moves the carrier to the left.

Open the typewriter cover.

Turn the feed knob of the cassette counterclockwise until the ribbon is tight.

Position the cassette over the ribbon carrier. Align the arrow on the cassette with the arrow on the ribbon carrier.

Insert the cassette into the ribbon carrier. Push the cassette down with your hands to lock it into place.